Michael Stephens says LA Galaxy future is "up in the air" after inconsistent season

CARSON, Calif. – Michael Stephens believes that he needs playing time to progress professionally, but whether he’ll receive that as a member of the LA Galaxy in 2014 is “up in the air” according to the midfielder.

“It was up and down, there were games that played well and then others where I didn't do so good,” Stephens told reporters earlier this month. “Part of that comes with playing time, but they go both hand in hand because if you don’t produce then the playing time won’t be there and it’s hard to produce when the playing time isn't there. It’s a tough balance. ”

During his final media availability, Stephens told reporters that he is out of contract, but he remains in communication with the Galaxy about returning in 2014. Wherever Stephens is playing next season, the 24-year-old knows that he’ll need playing time.

I personally, I want more playing time, but I’m not a guy that is going to be naïve to think that I was in a position where I definitely deserved more playing time. That’s just the way it is and it is something that I want more of going into next year.”